According to a poll by Gallup International, Ireland now ranks among the top ten atheist nations worldwide, in a huge shift from the last poll in 2005. In the six years between polls, according to the results, one in five Irish set aside religion.

The New York Rose of Tralee contestant Annemarie Lynch is arguably one of the most admirable young women to receive the award. Born in New York and raised in Co. Cavan, the 22-year-old beauty has accomplished much already in her young life.

McKillop hails from Newtownabbey, county Antrim and its a hot tip for a medal in London. Without a doubt McKillop is one of Ireland's most successful Paralympic athletes with titles at T37 800-meter to prove it.